Michael Broomhead

Medics are urging residents to look out for each other as the coldest spell of winter grips Derbyshire.

According to the Met Office, some parts of Derbyshire – like Buxton – will not see temperatures rise above freezing for three whole days from Sunday to Tuesday.

Daytime temperatures will struggle to rise above 3C in many other towns and villages across the county and overnight temperatures will fall to as low as –5C over the next five days.

A Met Office alert for severe cold weather has been triggered for Derbyshire.

Dr Steve Lloyd, chair of the NHS Hardwick Clinical Commissioning Group, which represents a number of GP practices across Derbyshire, said: “This is a good time to think about how the bad weather may affect your friends, family and neighbours, particularly if they are older or very young or have pre-existing health conditions.

“These groups can be particularly vulnerable to the ill-effects of cold so think now what you could do to help.

“Look out for them and ensure they have access to warm food, drinks and are managing to heat their homes adequately.”

As well as looking out for others, Dr Llyod advised people to keep warm indoors and to take extra care if they need to walk on icy surfaces.

He said: “When indoors, have plenty of hot food and drinks to stay warm and try to maintain indoor temperatures to at least 18C, particularly if you are not mobile, have a long-term illness or are 65 or over.

“If mobility isn’t an issue keep active as best you can.

“If you need to go out wear lots of thin layers and wear shoes with a good, slip-resistant grip to prevent any accidental falls.”